Hi Dave,

Welcome.

"I want to have a seamless backdrop run down from the backdrop holder at about 84 inches, to the table a couple feet in front of the backdrop at around 36" high. BUT, it's going to be used for photographing small animals, so I can't just have unsupported paper from the table to the top of the backdrop."

Why would you use such a system for photographing small animals? It would seem that there are more efficient ways of doing this.

Anyway, now that my question is asked, to your question. You may want to check out Helmi Flick's interview. As I recall, they show their lighting and drop system which they travel with. It is only about 54 inches wide, as I recall as they are photographing cats.

Thanks
James