This is a beautiful hike, so unexpected and worth the efforts.
After reading reviews, I knew it would be tricky, but I was still unprepared. I made a grave error by wearing converse, and it felt like I was walking on two sticks of butter the entire time. It would have been much easier with proper grippy shoes (and probably pants).
I found going down the ropes rather terrifying, but going back up was fine. There were many large groups of children (field trip or something), as young as eight or nine years old, and with a little assistance they seemed fine.
We did see a few large dogs, so it is possible for them...somehow.
Even after eating a big breakfast, I still felt hungry after the first half of the hike, so bringing a granola bar, especially if you plan to swim for a bit, is a good plan.
Busy trail, but people are friendly and will assist you with a hand up when you need it.