That's why I hope OP can find an attorney that is very knowledgeable on animal laws! I'm sending positive energy to them all!...The real issue here are laws that see companion animals as chattel.
Okay, now back to lurking. I'll try to add what I can based off of my personal legal experience as a self employed individual, but I'm not at all educated in law. I'm furiously gnawing my fingernails watching for updates!