When should the humane killing of an animal be confirmed?

The humane killing of an animal should be confirmed immediately after the procedure because it ensures that the animal has indeed passed away and that no signs of pain or distress are present post-intervention. This timing is critical to uphold ethical considerations and animal welfare standards. Confirming the death right after the procedure allows those involved to accurately assess the effectiveness of the euthanasia method used and ensures that there is no unnecessary suffering for the animal.

Other options suggest confirmation at various points that might not guarantee that the animal's death has been effectively and humanely achieved. For instance, confirming before the procedure begins does not account for the actual outcome of the euthanasia process, while waiting for signs of pain or behavioral patterns could lead to unnecessary distress or prolong suffering. Hence, the correct moment for confirmation is directly after the procedure is completed.