I think if you are going to do pets, you will have to do more than just "pets". Show dogs, agility, ect; and so on. This company sets up at dog shows and takes very nice pet photos. I was really interested in his set up. http://www.thewinningimage.com/twi/ I do think he also does other photography.

You could also do fundraisers which will augment some income and also help the cause you are fundraising for. It gets you a lot of sittings for a weekend. I am booked with about 75 sittings this weekend(and yes, I am afraid I have bit off more than I can chew)

Where there is a will there is a way. It just isn't always easy. I have a tendency to be a bit flaky, so, don't expect much pragmatism from me