Homebuyer Highlights: In the Lives of the Massats, Animals Are Always at the Center
Bruno Massat and Paula Moon-Massat have always shared a deep love for animals – a passion that has guided their careers, shaped their lives, and even brought them together. They first met during veterinary residencies at the University of California, Davis: Bruno, originally from Belgium, training in surgery, and Paula, an Ohio native, specializing in anesthesia. Their paths often crossed in the operating room, where collaboration sometimes came with spirited debate. What truly bonded them, though, was a shared devotion to animals.
“Growing up in Ohio, I was always surrounded by animals, but horses were really at the center of my world,” Paula said with a smile. “I rode Western, took part in competitions, and spent countless hours around the stables – it was just part of my everyday life.
“Horses had been such an important part of my childhood, and finding out that Bruno felt that same connection made it even more special for us.”
Both grew up with horses – Bruno immersed in Jumping and Paula in barrel-racing – and that mutual passion carried into their professional lives. Over the years, Paula’s work expanded to caring for marine mammals and wildlife, from sea turtles to polar bears and elephants, while Bruno built his career in small animal surgery. Together, they’ve never wavered in their belief of why animals, particularly humans’ closest companions, hold a special place in their hearts.
“I feel when it comes to dogs and cats, particularly, humans are the ones who domesticated them … because of our actions – horses the same – they depend on us,” said Bruno. “So, I feel we have a responsibility to care for them because they can’t care for themselves anymore. And then the usual common phrase you hear, ‘They’re always happy to see you.’ They decrease your blood pressure.
“That’s why they are admitted in hospitals now. And I really think for us, at least, our dogs really improve our quality of life.”
Now preparing for a move from the Boston suburbs to their new custom home in Lakewood Ranch, the Massats are embracing a fresh chapter, initially sparked by friends who bought a home in Florida. And drawn by the culture, community, and proximity to beaches that Paula loved visiting years ago, they see the Suncoast as the perfect backdrop for new adventures.
“My grandparents had a house in Sarasota, and I spent a lot of time visiting them when I was in college,” Paula recalled. “Lido Beach was just around the corner, and those days by the water are some of my favorite memories from that time in my life.”
Years later, when Bruno mentioned moving to Lakewood Ranch, she was pleasantly surprised.
“I loved hearing that it was so close to Sarasota – those same beaches I knew in my 20s,” said Paula. “It felt really special, almost like things had come full circle.”
For Paula, that means exploring ways to give back, whether through animal rescue, environmental volunteering, or simply spending more time outdoors. Bruno, while contemplating retirement, admits that imagining life without surgery is daunting. Still, they’re excited to dive into new hobbies, learn Spanish, connect with their community, and yes – sample the area’s many breweries.
Through it all, one thing remains certain: animals will continue to be at the center of their lives, a source of joy, purpose, and connection as they begin this next journey together.