Magician Pet: Classes?

[Burdoc101]

Hey just got started a few weeks ago on p1999 and enjoying my time. I am curious to know what I will see at higher level with the vocarate and up series of pets. I remember water was able to back stab, air was able to do some monk ability (flying kick, I could be mistaken about monk ability), fire pet was able to cast AE wizard spells, and earth, well, was still earth. I just can't remember if this was included with velious, prior to or after the expansion. (Trying to get a feel for the capabilities of the class and what I can expect on p1999.)

I appreciate any feedback on changes to the magician as well, either nerfs/patches on p1999 or if there is a link to another post of this description I could look at.

Thanks!

Burdoc