I've said this before - but this is just a reminder. I'll be breaking BOTL over time in order to get it into a far better place. Just be patient if you can't reach us! We'll be back
Probably better to claim them as a disability, dependents? probably not. You also have a chance of deducting their uncompensated expenses if they are work related.
Been claiming my pets for years... my tax person says that some pets are closer than family so I took that to mean they are dependents... I provide a home, food, training etc.