Thanks guys

just posted my final entry - its more or less the same as before as I was having problems rendering an image out (couldn't do an ultra high duuude level render).

Thanks for the comments about changes - I've smoothed off the hair round the bottom of the lips as it was needed but didnt have time to add some hair patches to make it more realistic.

pixiekiller - I was working off a few reference pics where the tongue doesnt look black at all - maybe it was the lighting that caught me out in them, its a good fact to know though

pyrus - I never got around to 'roughing' the longer fur up as you suggested - I was only using 5parts to the hairs which probably made them look straight and thin. Next time though and it will be different!

Thanks to everyone that has had some input into the final piece - much appreciated!
Now I can get back to a regular sleep pattern for a bit....