"(and the backdrop, is that black velvet or a different fabric?) The two lower shots I like but have just a small reservation about how the eyes look."

Hey PC,

I hear what you are saying about the eyes. The weepy eyes DO detract from the photograph over-all. However, I think that in PS, these things are cleaned up under most situations. I have posted two examples of the cleaned up shots below. For example, had I note posted the 'weepy' eye, I don't think that most people would have noticed that I just cleaned up the eyes...but on fine examination, you can see that some touch-up work was done.

On another note, the back-drop is made out of felt. They are easily cleaned and I find that the pets love the feel under their paws. They like being on the drop. I had a hard time extricating the poor lass after the shoot was over. LOL