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1a. ISTR reading somewhere that players could only have on combat animal, but could have as many non-combatants as they like, but I can't find it now. Is my recollection correct?
Thats correct. Its in the faq Here
Pathfinders don't usually need to worry about getting their hoard out of the dungeon though.
1b. If so, are animals just bought with cash? Or do you need prestige, like with those vanity retainers from the Primer?
They're bought with cash. They're mundane equipment and are size medium, so they're always available. (animals huge or bigger are right out)
1c. Is there a source with an actual mule anywhere? He'd settle for a pack pony instead, but I he'd prefer a mule.
Pathfinder (for some strange reason) considers donkeys and mules to be the same thing.
Donkey or Mule Price 8 gp; Weight 600-800 lbs. Donkeys and mules are stolid in the face of danger, hardy, surefooted, and capable of carrying heavy loads over vast distances. Unlike a horse, a donkey or mule is willing (though not eager) to enter dungeons and other strange or threatening places. Donkeys and mules have the same statistics as ponies.
1d. If cash, do they count as mundane equipment for the purposes of being "always available"? (Obviously, this would only apply to the pony.)
Eyup.