When approaching any wild animal it is important to be cautious and respectful. It is also best to approach from the rear so if they do get up and flee your not in their way. The poke on the rump or eye is further safety measure but really if doing either a deer playing possum can hurt you in this proximity. What I always do is inspect the indicators for hit quality and possible placement(ie Blood trail, reaction or if they drop I keep a loaded rifle trained on them for several minutes from my original position looking for movement or lack there of). After the shot listen to them fleeing, in wooded areas you will often hear them crash, I have heard them cough their last breath, bears will often moan...all indicators. I never am in a big hurry to rush off after the shot, I take my landmarks for positioning of the trail and then collect my thoughts and stuff. Never assume I will not need my rifle or bow, so it is always reading if the event should arise. As I approach any game I will look for any sign of life, head moving, breathing..if they are alive the chest cavity will move. If I encounter an animal that is living I put a finishing shot into them at safe distance, basically when ever possible...I don't think walking up and stuffing in their face is the smartest move. If no sign of life I have never poked the rump but was taught look at the eye before handling, like mentioned if closed or any movement he/she is alive.