Since therapy of an overt attack of rabies fails, we are completely dependent on prophylaxis. This must be carried out with extreme care. A careful detailed history is the most important, the fundamental question being: was this a provoked or unprovoked attack by the animal? In addition some knowledge of the behavior of different animals towards man is essential. Before every treatment, the question whether it is really necessary must be settled. The help of a veterinary colleague should be called upon in taking the history. A rapid diagnosis can be obtained by fluorescence serology of the dead animal.