[3.5] How to Optimize a Panda Companion?

[Atluss]

Hey! I was wondering if I could get some help on how to optimize a panda animal companion? I wasn't sure where to start, I haven't played 3.5 in waaaay too long and am planning to get back in it. I was assuming I'd go Druid, but I'm not sure. Also, what races would synthesize well? I was planning on having the panda be in the spotlight more than my character, with the actual PC being more of a supporter/healer. What races would be fun to use for this? It'd be cool if I could ride the panda at some point, but I feel like that isn't possible. Finally, is there an actual statted panda, or should I just refluff the black bear? Thanks for any help, I'd really appreciate it!

[DrMotives]

You'll probably have to refluff the black bear. And fluffwise, you should be a bamboo spirit folk. You'll be able to ride the bear if it's large size.

[mabriss lethe]

So it's going to be a......

........ Companda?
http://teamventure.org/w/images/thumb/4/4b/RB.jpg/200px-RB.jpg

[PaucaTerrorem]

So it's going to be a......

........ Companda?
http://teamventure.org/w/images/thumb/4/4b/RB.jpg/200px-RB.jpg

How dare you. And by that I mean thank you. Thank you very much. And can we be friends. I need friends that say things like that.