Yes, it is animal abuse.   Feel better knowing that what goes around comes around.  They better hope that they never have to go into a nursing home!!!!!!!    Sounds like Satan is a big part of their life.   They could have given the dog away.   An animal is only as good as it's owner.   I pray that they receive mercy from God and that they receive understanding and mercy.  I wonder what else the poor dog went through.  Maybe it is better off waiting in Abrahams boosum until judgement day.  At least dog now has the best owner on this earth.   Dog is God spelled backward, mans best friend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!