When the late humane officer C. Richard Calore was serving in World War II, a courageous cat kept him warm in a French foxhole in the dead cold of winter. Inspired by her companionship, he decided to dedicate the rest of his life fighting for felines of all ages. He thus founded the National Cat Protection Society — a cat shelter with a retirement center. The retirement center gives owners who can’t keep their cherished kitties a first-rate place to send them for lifetime care. “We give our retirement kitties high-quality food and plenty of TLC,” said VP of public relations Gerri Calore. “They also receive medical and dental care in our on-site clinic.” Over the years, the center has evolved to improve the welfare of its residents. The latest change was enriching the environment. Dubbed NATCAT Paradise, it now features a wall-to-wall overhead walkway, ramps, “lifeguard tower,” large “island,” “volcano and lava” with pressure-controlled heating pads, scratching post and “Retirement Bay boat dock” anchoring “love boats” with litterboxes. These attractions stimulate the cats physically and mentally, strengthening their bodies and minds while supporting natural instincts. NATCAT will unveil the completed center at its 42nd-anniversary Open House and Fundraiser on June 13, inviting all cat lovers to visit and help them continue the fight Calore started years ago. For more information, visit www.natcat.org.