for grace and her dogs
this is not the first time you have been concerned about the dogs---call a local shelter and ask for info on a foster home for the dogs.The stats are high for abuse of pets-and there are many horrible stories I have heard .He will take out on the dog what he can't take out on you--especially if he knows how concerned you are about them. The dogs cannot protect themselves from his A.
Go and get them when he is not there and leave a door or something open so he thinks they got out---don't tell him you have a knowledge--no way he can find out.
The foster mom will keep the dogs until you want them back or they can find a new home for them.Remember this is not a shelter but a foster home--I belong to one myself....
I know you have a lot on your plate now--but it needs to be done asap...