Final answer:
When an animal appears to be dead, one should approach it cautiously for a few minutes to ensure it is truly deceased and not just stunned, resting, or playing dead.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a downed animal appears to be dead, the appropriate course of action to take for a few minutes is to approach cautiously. This is because animals can sometimes appear to be dead when they are actually stunned or resting. By approaching the animal cautiously, you protect yourself and give the animal some time to show signs of life if it is not actually dead. Calling for help is a sensible step if you are not trained to deal with wildlife or if the animal is potentially dangerous.