You don't always know the full details of these "first hand reports". A fair few are economical with the actualite, some are just made up for effect. Yes, there is much scare mongering.
Need one in Bangkok. She will have to travel to the VFS office for biometrics. All the agent is doing is essentially checking the paperwork is in order. Personally, I would let your girlfriend find and select an agent herself.
Seems hairbrained scheme with respect to the dogs, and the risk of losing them. There will be a Thai record of you importing two dogs then leaving Thailand without the two dogs. You might even find that customs might fine you. When you import the animals, you post a bond guaranteeing you will take them out of Thailand after 6 months. Leaving Thailand without the animals might raise a huge red flag, leading to them being seized as goods.