Micky,
the small size of the image you attached makes it difficult to see much in terms of detail/noise trade-offs. However, there's a difference between HDR and tone-mapping although they tend to get used together a lot. HDR uses the multiple exposure technique to provide a broader dynamic range whereas tone-mapping allows you to tweak the micro-contrast and increase shadow detail. It seems to me that if what you shared is the type of shot you typically want to use the faux-HDR technique on, tone-mapping might be a better alternative.

I use Photomatix frequently by itself -- without HDR -- to increase the details in some types of photos. I must admit that I don't use it on dogs or people since it tends to add an unnatural look to those images that I personally don't like but I suspect it would work on the example you shared.

Congratulations on your retirement from the telephone company. I left Southern New England Telephone in 1983 during the first AT&T restructure. It's not the same Bell System any more, is it?

Jim