Narelle
There are a few problems with the approach you have taken. Firstly, don’t believe what an agent may tell you regarding the attitude of the other owners.
The by-laws are in place to be observed, and you have more animals than permitted. Although some of the owners have tolerated your breach over the past 6 years, you cannot assume that all the owners when you bought are going to stay there in perpetuity, and if they are replaced by owners with a different level of tolerance then where do you stand?
You could have in the past applied to change the by-law to accommodate your pet situation, and still have this opportunity. But if you do you must get the matter listed on the agenda prior to a meeting so it can be voted upon. If it is voted down though you must be prepared to abide by the decision. You could ignore the current complaint and see whether it is further pursued.
It makes the other situation regarding parking difficult for you, if you find yourself out of favour with the other residents over the pet issue, you may not get a great deal of sympathy from them or the Strata Manager.