I thought about card board- but then I figured if it gets damp, which it does on Long Island, the whole thing will warp and all that work will go to waste. As for paper mache, there'd definately be a less hassle way to make a base; A combination of foam + hockey helmet. With various yarms, faux fur, hot glue and other myriad animal'esque fixen's. I'm also super against paper mache- def. would also be a a little too messy and not so strong, I'm also not familiar with it. But, I def. appreciate your input.
I'll be scoping out Joann's Fabric store and Michael's Craft Store tomrrow.
I'll post pix of progress if the trouble out-weighs the gain.