In Northam Magistrates Court last Tuesday the Tilbrook family of Bakers Hill, owners of the missing dogs, sought restraining orders against former SAFE Avon Valley members.

Proceedings were adjourned.

There was a demonstration outside the court by people who believe the Tilbrooks operate a 'puppy mill', which the Tilbrooks have long denied.

The original situation turned sour when the Shire released the two dogs before the mandatory 72 hours to SAFE.

It is unclear whether there were any specific instructions about the dogs' treatment but one former SAFE member is adamant it was a normal handover.

The result was the dogs were desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and placed in Perth foster homes.

Although the dogs were supposed to be surrendered to the RSPCA, which is happy to return them to the Tilbrooks, this never happened and their whereabouts are unknown.

Membership of SAFE Avon Valley has now fractured with a rival HAARTS being formed with similar objectives.

Both groups say their aim is to prevent animals from being euthanised.

A former SAFE member who does not wish to be named said that during her time with SAFE it had saved more than 400 dogs.

“Dogs we saved were sold for $400 after treatment,” she said.

“When we left SAFE there was about $27,000 in the bank and, as far as I am aware, this has not been audited.”

Unrelated incidents at Kellerberrin show how profitable the puppy industry has become.

Police there have recently raided two properties.

In the first 25 dogs were found.

The second was a fortnight ago east of Kellerberrin where 80 dogs and puppies were found.

A woman was due to appear in Merredin Magistrates Court yesterday as there were RSPCA prohibition orders against the property owner.

An underground dog feeding facility was found on the property.