Innovative Use #3:

dog's nose = weather indicator

We have carpets at our house, and some days our long-haired dog just sparkles with static electricity. Touch his nose: spark. Let him lick your hand: spark. Poor thing!! ... but it occurs to me: those would be the perfect days in this all-too-often-humid climate to make meringues and divinities. Yum!

Good puppy! Let me pet you.. c'mere!