I used a very wide aperture, 5.6. And I made a stack with Helicon focus. So this way I could keep the background much more diffuse and keep the whole animal in focus.
Perhaps a bit complicated to do, with the tripod and the subject has to sit still. But it may give nice results. O.k. I admit it is not a new idea. But it was something I had not thought of to use like this. I just used Helicon focus to get everything in focus, not to manage the unsharpness of the background as well.
Wim
Nice background, sharp and well stacked (been along time since I used that line. 
) I have yet to use a stacking program. I have looked for one at the local photo shop in Asheville, N.C. but there seems not to be one available commercially without purchasing and downloading, a program off of a website. Thanks Wim. 