i noticed that clover sometimes when a short range weapon is selected will use a long range one without being told to switch. i didn't pay too much attention to this. now i am playing NV. veronica is during the same. but she seems to switch to range on her own when using the http://fallout.wikia.com/wiki/Heavy_incinerator_(Fallout:_New_Vegas). which is cool because i seldom use flame weapons. i tried giving her other energy weapons but so far only http://fallout.wikia.com/wiki/Heavy_incinerator_(Fallout:_New_Vegas) works, switching wise.

one of cass's personal perks is increase in hit points. but other sidekicks on the team at the time will also get a boost in their hit points.