The pet damage from weapons is twice the displayed damage on the weapon you give him. So unless your pet's maximum hit is less than twice the weapon damage, don't worry about it. Unless, of course, you are going for the ever-so-useful proc. Give him two of the summoned pet weapons and you'll be good to go.
As for armor - Unless you get the summoned pet armor, there really is no need to bother at that level. Although, picking up the pet haste mask and stat belt is definitely recommended.
Glad to have you back, good luck.