Dr. Heidgerd started his veterinary journey as a Yorkshire Animal Hospital kennel boy in York Pennsylvania. His dog and cat career began as a West York High School "Bulldog". Then, he became a "Lion", a Nittany Lion, earning a BS in Animal Science from Penn State University. From there, he went on to receive his veterinary degree in 1978 from the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine.

Following graduation, he completed a rotating small animal medical/surgical internship at the South Shore Veterinary Associates, just south of Boston. Dr. Heidgerd has practiced in New Jersey for over thirty years. For many years he worked alongside Dr. Cailles at practices in Martinsville and Long Valley. Joining Oldwick Animal Hospital in April, 2013, he feels fortunate to be working with Jan and Anna in the beautiful practice they both have worked so hard to create.

Veterinary medicine is a family affair for the Heidgerds. John's wife, Jean, is a certified veterinary technician for The Seeing Eye Center in Chester. John and Jean have two children, Katie and Eric. Katie is in school studying pre-veterinary medicine, and has assisted at the Oldwick Animal Hospital since 2011. Each year they enjoy their summer ritual, a relaxing vacation on Cape Cod. Not surprisingly, they share their home with many pets-two retired Seeing Eye German Shepherds, a Norfolk terrier, and three cats.