I really don't think you're abusive at all! You were just doing what someone would do with most any other animal that got dirty.

I let my rats mess around with water(just enough to get their little feet wet), and they have a blast. This is usually after they have a nice messy snack of something like babyfood. It gets them clean alot faster than their regular grooming.

I find that alot of other forums are overcrowded with know-it-alls. Part of the reason why I only come on PT.

And again, don't doubt that you're a great mouse parent! Its obvious your mice live very well. =D