Just another expat dream

Hello all, my girlfriend and I have been talking a lot lately about moving.  We are both Americans in technicality only - but neither of us has ever felt at home here with American culture, values, and consumerism.  We've both done much research and have pretty much decided that Uruguay is going to be the place to go.  To find...home. 

I have a few questions. 
1.)  We are both young, ablebodied, and want to know how hard it is to find work.  I am finishing up my certification as a massage therapist.  She has some college experience, but no degree.  What are our options, what's the general climate like opportunity wise for us?

2.)  I have a dog (25-30 lb), who absolutely needs to come with us.  How hard is it to find affordable housing that allows pets? 

3.) Is there public transport available 24 hours/day?  How about outside Montevideo?  We would like to live somewhat outside the major city (to save $$$$), but it's absolutely essential that we have access to public transport 24 h/day if that will be the case as I am selling my car to finance the first year of our apartment.

4.)How does one handle the down time between arriving and finding an apartment for rent?  As in, is it best to stay at a hotel, hostel, or are there other options i am not aware of (bear in mind I have the pup with me)?  Generally how long does it take to find a longterm apartment once you land?  I've pretty much given up trying to set it up in advance, as it seems all listings are for vacation properties and such.

Many thanks for any who respond, hopefully yall will have a new set of neighbors by the time January rolls around!

-mike