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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 20 November 2017
Increased anthelmintic resistance worldwide has lead many to investigate alternative methods of parasite control (Donaldson et al. 1998). In sheep it is believed that the larval contamination of the pasture is derived mainly from the mature breeding ewe due to the periparturient relaxation of immunity (PPRI). Donaldson et al. (1998) reported that increasing the metabolisable protein (MP) supply of the ewe in late pregnancy may moderate the PPRI. Previous studies investigating the effect of MP supply to dairy ewes on faecal nematode egg output have, however, not shown significant differences (Partington et al. 2003). This study investigates the effects of both MP supply and the effect of milking on the PPRI and worm burden.