To answer the question of how I secure the animals to my pottery, I use paper clay. I make this using the clay of my pottery (trinity white cone 5/6 clay) and cellulose insulation. The ratio is 75% of gooey slip to 25% cellulose. Measurements do not have to be exact. I put materials in an old blender then liquidly adding water if needed. Also, add a few drops of bleach to stop the mixture from souring. When I am ready to place the sculpture, I score the contact area and the sculpture, and then brush a dab of the paper clay to scored area. Place the sculpture firmly to scored area. Brush a thin layer of the paper clay up the legs of the animals is needed. This adds reinforcement without adding bulk. In your bisque firing, the paper burns away leaving a thin layer of smooth clay. Practice, you will love the results.