Been out of the loop.....sorry it took so long about the avatar. Try this & see if it works for you.
To set your own avatar. First thing: gif image must be stored online or it won't be visible. Can't link it directly from your PC.
Once in your profile choose "Select a different avatar image"
In the box that says "Use Custom URL:" copy & paste the URL where your image is stored. It will look something like this:
http://www.buck-a-meg.com/goody2shuz/BaM/gallery/Animations/Water_E.gif click "set URL"
click "select this avatar"
You'll be taken back to your profile page. Click "update profile"
Now you're all ready to go.
Happy avataring!!! :p